PdC Main Street is in the inception phase of creating an audio walking tour of the historical, cultural and personal narratives that can bring the character of the community alive. Whether it’s attributable to a documented source or rather a peculiar tale of one person’s memory, it’s worth being shared.

Through the iPads for Autism Project of the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Kiwanis District, the Prairie du Chien Kiwanis Club recently provided one iPad with a Big Grips protective case and $50 of apps designed for people with Autism to a local high school student and $50 in apps to another high school student. This was the first presentation of its kind in the community and an emotional and heartfelt appreciation was evident from the students, parents and the staff of these students. Kiwanis members and the students are pictured (from left) Arnie Mezera, Drew Van de Creek, Seth Sanders, Dave Parks and Jason Knapp. (Submitted photo)

By Correne Martin

The Kiwanis Club of Prairie du Chien is helping to unlock the communication barrier for children with autism.

A symptom of autism is verbal and nonverbal communication problems. According to the Autism Spectrum Disorder Foundation (ASDF), the gamut of issues runs from mild to severe. Regardless, individuals with autism have a difficult time expressing their feelings, forming words and communicating in general.

“A traditional approach to help break the communication barrier was for therapists or caregivers to use hand-laminated picture cards, which did not work well outside of that circle. Equipment was also developed to assist an autistic child in communicating, but was only beneficial at therapy because the equipment was bulky, heavy and expensive,” the ASDF website explains.

The first project at city hall that Aaron Kramer did upon arrival in 2010 was to frame and hang pictures of Prairie du Chien’s former mayors in the main hallway. Now, his final gift to the city is this display case filled with historical city memorabilia he’s collected during his time here. The wood was donated by Bennett Hardwoods, it was built by Novey Construction and the city employees put it together. Stop by and check it out. (Photo by Correne Martin)

By Correne Martin

Prairie du Chien City Administrator Aaron Kramer finished a seven-year stint managing municipal business on Friday, March 3. He starts as the village administrator at Hobart on Monday, March 6.

The process to recruit and select a new city administrator is underway with GovHR USA. The position is expected to be filled by June or July. In the meantime, City Clerk-Treasurer Tina Fuller will serve as interim city administrator.
Kramer was nostalgic when remembering his tenure last week. At Tuesday night’s common council meeting, he even wore the three-piece suit he donned at his initial interview before coming to Prairie du Chien.

“It was sad. I’m going to miss the people I work with,” Kramer stated.